We are all living through difficult and uncertain times as the pandemic makes planning any forthcoming events impossible.

Tenby, at this time of year, would normally be full of coffee mornings and fashion shows, suppers and charity auctions, all designed to help raise funds for some of the most vulnerable members of society. Sadly, the need has not gone away with the pandemic, but, in many cases, increased.

Ellen Powling (pictured), leader of St. Mary’s Mothers’ Union, decided that, at least, our members could still find a way to support PATCH, which does such wonderful work in our community. She started to collect donations of food from members to pass on to the charity.

Many members also gave money, and this has been augmented by substantial donations from St. Mary’s Soupermen and from St. Mary’s Deacons’ Fund. This has enabled Ellen and her husband, Dennis to buy large quantities for food items which has been delivered to PATCH.

As Christmas approaches, help such as this will be sorely needed to ensure that everyone has at least something to celebrate this year. Many thanks go to all who have contributed and special thanks goto Ellen for co-ordinating it all.

Toys for the PATCH Christmas Toy Appeal may be brought to St. Mary’s Church porch between 9.30 am and 10 am on Sunday, November 29.